As summer approaches, many Alaskans are setting their sights on the state’s iconic national parks—none more expansive or awe-inspiring than Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, the largest national park in the United States.
Located in southeastern Alaska, this vast wilderness spans more than 13.2 million acres—an area larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Switzerland combined. The park’s immense scale, coupled with its dramatic topography of mountains, valleys, glaciers, and historic sites, makes it a premier destination for both adventure and reflection.
“Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve at over 13.2 million acres is the largest national park and preserve complex in the United States,” said Jonathan Shafer, Kennecott Management Assistant with the National Park Service. “We cover an area the size of Yellowstone plus Yosemite plus Switzerland.”
A central attraction within the park is the historic Kennecott Mine, a preserved copper mining town that operated from the early 1900s through the late 1930s. The striking red-and-white buildings, now managed as part of the park, provide a vivid glimpse into Alaska’s industrial past.
“If you come up here to Kennecott, you’ll see plenty of buildings with this iconic red and white look that tell the story of the work that happened here,” Shafer said.
Wrangell-St. Elias is also a showcase for the geological forces that continue to shape Alaska’s rugged terrain. One of the park’s most popular excursions is a hike to Root Glacier, where visitors can walk directly on ancient ice and observe glacial activity in real time.
“You can also learn about the geologic forces that continue to shape this place,” Shafer noted. “If you take a hike just a few miles from here to Root Glacier, you can get out on white ice and see one of the forces that is still actively shaping our park.”
While Alaska is renowned for its natural beauty, park rangers emphasize that Wrangell-St. Elias offers a distinct experience—one that combines raw wilderness with a warm welcome from those who steward the land.
“I would say that one of the things that is exciting about this—and really every national park—is that the rangers here are looking forward to welcoming you,” Shafer added.
With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive outdoor opportunities, Wrangell-St. Elias stands as a testament to the wild and enduring spirit of Alaska. As the season unfolds, it remains a compelling destination for those seeking both adventure and connection in nature.
